Culture

A celebration of European history and culture

Today, 9 May, marks Europe Day – an annual day for members of the European Union to celebrate the bonds that unite them.

The Scottish Government marked the day by revealing that more than 200 engagements between Scottish Government ministers and European governments, institutions and organisations have taken place since the start of 2017.

Culture and External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop said that there was a ‘strong desire’ by EU countries to connect with Scotland and listen to our views, as she gave an address at the European Commission’s Europe Day event at Glasgow’s George Square.

“The strong desire by our European partners to engage has never been greater.

“People in Scotland voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU and there were majorities for remain in every local authority area. We are determined to make Scotland’s voice heard as we enter a crucial stage in the Brexit negotiations and will be stepping up our engagement plans.

“Whatever the outcome, it is essential that we continue our collaboration, friendship and partnership with EU nations.”

EU citizens make a vital contribution to Scotland’s economy. They drive our population growth and ensure we have workers to meet the needs of businesses and the public sector throughout Scotland. #ThankEU#EuropeDaypic.twitter.com/zFVAOPEcTk

Meanwhile, Minister for Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe Michael Russell has launched a £150,000 stakeholder engagement fund today, as he visited the Action Group.

The new fund will to help ensure community organisations, charities and other grassroots groups are listened to during the ongoing Brexit negotiations.

The Minister made the announcement as he visited the Action Group in Edinburgh, a charity providing support to children and adults with learning difficulties, to find out about their concerns about Brexit.

Mr Russell said:

“As I meet with organisations throughout Scotland, one thing I hear time and again is that while they are worried about Brexit, pressure on resources means they simply don’t have the capacity to plan for it.

“This new fund is about ensuring the full range of voices can be heard, not just those with specialist staff and big budgets. So I want this fund to be a megaphone for under-represented groups across the country.”